The Surprising Center of Our Faith

What's the one thing in your life you're most proud of? Your education? Career? Accomplishments? Paul had many reasons to boast, yet he declared: "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Galatians 6:14, NIV).

“14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which[a] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
— Galatians 6:14 (NIV)

The apostle Paul had impressive credentials:

  • Elite religious education as a Pharisee

  • Roman citizenship with its privileges

  • Intellectual brilliance and leadership skills

He could have boasted about Jesus' miraculous birth, profound teachings, or glorious resurrection. Yet he chose the cross - an instrument of shame and suffering - as his greatest pride. Why?

Three Transformative Truths About the Cross

  1. It Reveals the Seriousness of Sin
    The cross shows how deeply sin separates us from God, requiring such a costly sacrifice. As Isaiah 53:5 reminds us, "He was pierced for our transgressions."

  2. It Demonstrates God's Limitless Love
    While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). The cross is heaven's clearest declaration of love.

  3. It Offers the Only Way to Salvation
    Jesus declared, "I am the way..." (John 14:6). The cross bridges the gap between holy God and sinful humanity.

A Life Transformed by the Cross

When we truly understand the cross:

  • Our pride melts away in light of God's sacrifice

  • Our purpose shifts to living for Christ

  • Our perspective changes to eternal values

The cross isn't just a historical event - it's the power that continues to transform lives today. Have you experienced its life-changing power?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for the incredible gift of the cross. Help me to fully grasp its meaning and live in its power. May I boast in nothing else but your sacrifice that brings me salvation. Transform me to live a cross-centred life that honours you. Amen.

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